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Action on apprenticeships at last
08 Jun 2018 | Archive
The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry welcomes the news that five States and Territories have signed on to the Federal Government’s apprenticeship-focused national partnership agreement on Vocational Education and Training (VET).
Australian Chamber CEO James Pearson said, “With VET funding levels down and apprenticeship numbers only just starting to climb up from rock bottom, it is vital that the $1.2 billion Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) succeeds in achieving the additional commencement of up to 300,000 apprentices, trainees, and pre-apprenticeships over the 4 years.
“The $50 million sign-on bonus, a share of another $250 million this financial year and greater funding certainty were clearly a big inducement for NSW, South Australia, Tasmania, ACT, and NT to sign on.
“But it is a shame that WA, Queensland and Victoria have not yet seen the merits in signing up.
“We urge all states and territories to look at the prize – a skilled workforce for our future, and act to help Australia’s ailing VET sector.
“Australia’s governments must work with business to boost apprenticeships.
Although the sign-on bonus lapsed yesterday, the three remaining states can still sign the SAF partnership agreement on or before 30 September 2018.
For more information:
Duncan Bremner | Director, Public Affairs & Advocacy | 0448 822 666